Joseph R. Paterra, age 88 of Versailles, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, January 10, 2013. Born June 30, 1924 in McKeesport, he was a son of the late Antonio and Madelena (Chiaverinni) Paterra. Joseph served with the U.S. Army in the European Theater of World War II and worked at U.S. Steel's Duquesne Plant. He was a member of St. Patrick's Church in Christy Park, the Eleventh Ward Welfare Association, and the Palanese League of America. Joseph was preceded in death by his wife, Agnes (Smith) Paterra on July 14, 2002 and his daughter Paula Paterra in 1972. He is survived by his daughter Karen Paterra of Versailles; granddaughters Nicole Katona and Joelle (Lenny) Harbert; great-grandchildren Rocco Katona and Casey and Jacob Harbert; his brother Anthony (Catherine) Paterra of Pittsburgh; and also nieces and nephews. Besides his wife, daughter, and parents, Joseph was preceded in death by his siblings Mary Campana, Ann Turcan, and John Paterra. Friends will be received in the Daniel F. Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory on Sunday, January 13, 2013 from 2 PM until 4 PM and from 6 PM until 8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, January 14, 2013 in St. Patrick's Church. Procession and burial with military honors will follow to Mount Vernon Cemetery in Elizabeth Township.

Dear Karen, Nikki, Joelle and family. My deepest sympathy to all of you and know that I am praying for you all. I know it was hard to say goodbye, but remember that your Dad and Pap is now walking/dancing on Streets of Gold. We will all be able to see him again when we leave this earth and live in our real home in Heaven with our glorious Lord and Savior. May His peace surround you all. Blessings and Love, Georgette/Aunt Georgette

Kathy Smith

Posted Fri January 11, 2013

Dear Karen and family, I am sincerely saddened for you at this time. But remember that God has good intentions for this great man. Please be blessed that you got to have him for so many years. May prayers comfort you.

Kathy

Sue Bartoli

Posted Fri January 11, 2013

Karen and Family,

I was so sorry to hear of the passing of your Dad. I'm not sure if you remember me but I'm your cousin Angie Campana Govaere's daughter. I have such fond memories of your dad and all the visits we used to make to Pennsylvania when I was a little girl. Please pass on my condolences to your entire family. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.